JavaScript is disabled for your browser. Some features of this site may not work without it.

Feeding tree preference of Yellow-bellied Sapsuckers, Sphyrapicus varius varius, based on tree species and size, at UMBS, Chebogyan County, lower northern Michigan.

Florey, Lia

Florey, Lia

1997

Abstract: This study examined the frequency of sapwells on different species of trees at the University of Michigan Biological Station, Cheboygan County, Michigan (45 33'30.370""N,84 40'27.516""W;T37N,R3W,Sec.33), in order to show species and size specific preferences of Yellow-bellied Sapsuckers (Sphyrapicus varius varius) for sap trees. Four 20 m by 20 m quadrats were selected randomly from points along two crossing transect lines that intersected at the nest tree. In these quadrats, trees with a diameter at brease height (dbh) over 20 cm were censused and presence or absence of sapwells, indicating sapsucker feeding, was recorded. Results suggested that sapsuckers preferred Scotch pines (Pinus sylvestris) as feeding trees but no preferences for tree sizes were revealed. These results contribute to the morass of findings on sapsucker feeding preferences. These studies suggest that feeding preferences vary based on many factors including tree species, tree size, sap flow, sap sucrose content, location, season and the availability of other food sources. Examining Yellow-bellied Sapsucker feeding tree preference highlights the interconnectedness of ecosystems.